Netanyahu asks Peres for coalition help

JERUSALEM (JTA) — Prime Minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu asked President Shimon Peres to help him form a unity government.

The two Israeli leaders met Monday night after talks between Netanyahu’s Likud Party and Tzipi Livni’s Kadima Party failed to reach an agreement, according to Israel Radio. The talks apparently broke down over Livni’s demand that Netanyahu commit to a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Netanyahu also reportedly met with Labor Party leader Ehud Barak, who said his party will not join the government.

The Likud continued coalition talks Tuesday with the Shas Party.

Netanyahu is required to present Peres with a coalition by Sunday or request a two-week extension.